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4.7

A Left Bank gem with the perfect mix of modern and historic.

Le Clos Médicis was one of the first places to have been decorated by Jean-Philippe Nuel and has stood up well to the test of time, getting it just right with its combination of pared-back contemporary and the beams and high ceilings of a fine 18th-century building, originally built for a member of the Médicis family, and an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and soothing.

Location

5

90%

Eating/drinking

4

90%

Leisure facilities

n/a

90%

Service

4

90%

Value for money

3.8

90%

Bedrooms

4.7

90%

Public areas

4.2

90%

Location

The ideal Left Bank location on a historic street near the Jardins du Luxembourg. The Latin Quarter is in one direction, the cafés and boutiques of St-Germain just down the street, and there's direct RER access for the Eurostar and Charles de Gaulle airport.

Bedrooms

The clean-lined pared back style in warm burgundy or beige colour scheme is similar in all the rooms. Classic rooms are slightly smaller than Superior and only have a shower not bath. Deluxe rooms are bigger with Queen-size bed. Many rooms have exposed beams (ask for these when you book) and unless you really care about noise, go for ones overlooking the street rather than the courtyard. There's also a ground-floor triple room overlooking the courtyard, and a two-room attic suite. Most rooms have attractive Indian animal prints on the walls and panelled wardrobes, some incorporate old armoire doors. Bathrooms were redone last year, and are clean and practical with space to leave your things and extra touches such as dressing gowns.

Public areas

The sunken lounge beside the entrance is quite small but light and welcoming with fresh flowers, a fireplace and eclectic objects and antiques. There's also a small paved courtyard where you can sit outside in fine weather.

Eating and drinking

A buffet breakfast is served until 11am and until noon at weekends, although the breakfast room gets a little cramped if everyone arrives at the same time. Although there are plenty of cafés nearby, the bar in the lounge, where drinks can be served all day, is an added plus.

Service

I've generally been very impressed by the courteous, helpful staff when friends have stayed here, although occasionally the welcome can be a little offhand.

Who stays there

Couples of all ages: clearly a cosy place for twos.

Price advice

Be aware that prices rise for the major trade fairs, but look out for good deals, especially during August.